About the movie: "I Want to Live on Mars" (2023) is an independent film that follows the intertwined lives of two teenage girls, Pickles and Breezy, from contrasting backgrounds in exurban Pennsylvania. Brought together by challenging circumstances involving their guardians, they forge an unexpected friendship. Inspired by the real-life Appalachian ghost town of Centralia, the film poetically depicts their decision to leave their isolated lives behind and embark on a search for something more, symbolized by their desire to find "Life on Mars." The film explores themes of teenage loneliness, the yearning for self-expression, and the power of unlikely connections.
Plot summary: In rural Pennsylvania, Pickles, a local girl, finds her life intersecting with Breezy, an urban teenager, due to unforeseen family situations. Despite their different upbringings, they navigate their shared circumstances and form a bond. Feeling constrained by their surroundings and a lack of opportunity, they dream of a different life. Inspired by the desolate yet intriguing atmosphere of Centralia, they make a pact to leave and pursue a future where they can truly be themselves, embarking on a symbolic journey towards "Life on Mars."
Director's Vision: Director Mariya Somova, drawing from her own experiences as a Ukrainian immigrant, aimed to explore the feelings of isolation and the stifled desire for self-expression prevalent among teenagers in isolated environments. Inspired by the eerie yet compelling landscape of Centralia, she sought to capture the essence of loneliness and the human yearning for connection and escape.
Themes:
The Universal Experience of Teenage Loneliness and Isolation: The film poignantly portrays the feelings of being disconnected and misunderstood that many teenagers face, particularly in environments lacking stimulation or opportunity.
The Powerful Desire for Escape and Self-Expression: The symbolic journey to "Life on Mars" represents a fundamental human longing to break free from limitations and discover avenues for authentic self-expression and personal fulfillment.
The Unexpected Strength of Unlikely Friendships: The bond that forms between Pickles and Breezy, despite their contrasting backgrounds, highlights the surprising ways in which meaningful connections can emerge in challenging circumstances, offering solace and support.
The Profound Influence of Environment on Identity and Aspirations: The film subtly examines how the physical and social landscape can shape a teenager's sense of self, their dreams for the future, and their perception of available opportunities.
Resilience and the Innate Human Yearning for Something More: Despite facing difficult situations and a sense of confinement, the characters demonstrate a remarkable resilience and an unwavering desire for a brighter future, fueling their decision to seek a different path.
Key success factors:
Relatable themes of teenage experience, loneliness, and the desire for escape: The film taps into universal adolescent feelings of isolation and the yearning for something more, making it resonate with a broad audience, particularly young adults.
Unique inspiration drawn from the real-life ghost town of Centralia: This distinctive setting provides a compelling backdrop and adds a layer of intrigue and social commentary to the narrative, setting it apart from typical coming-of-age stories.
Personal and authentic perspective from director Mariya Somova: Somova's own experiences as a refugee and her connection to the themes of loneliness and displacement likely imbue the film with a genuine and heartfelt quality that resonates with viewers.
Compelling portrayal of an unlikely friendship: The development of the central relationship between Pickles and Breezy offers emotional depth and provides a core for the narrative, likely enhanced by strong performances from the young actresses.
Award-winning visual storytelling through cinematography and production design: The recognition for Best Cinematography and Best Production Design at film festivals underscores the film's artistic merit and suggests a visually striking and immersive experience that enhances the storytelling.
Summary short: Two teenage girls from different worlds in rural Pennsylvania forge an unexpected friendship and embark on a symbolic journey towards a better future, inspired by the desolate beauty of the ghost town Centralia.
Awards and nominations: "I Want to Live on Mars" has received 4 wins and 1 nomination:
Nominated: New Media Film Festival 2024, Festival Award.
Won: Northeast Pennsylvania Film Festival 2024, Jury Prize for Best Narrative Feature (Mariya Somova, AuraPyre Productions).
Won: Queens World Film Festival 2024, Festival Award for Best Production Design (Mariya Somova, AuraPyre Productions).
Won: Oil Valley Film Festival 2023, Jury Award for Best Cinematography - Feature (Adam Ninyo).
Won: Sherman Oaks Film Festival 2023, Programmer's Award for Exceptional Filmmaking (Mariya Somova, AuraPyre Productions).
Critics reception: While widespread critical reception from major review sites is limited, the film has garnered positive attention within the film festival circuit. The Queens World Film Festival highlights the film's poignant exploration of teenage girlhood, loneliness, and the search for self-expression, inspired by the unique setting of Centralia. The multiple festival awards further attest to the film's positive reception among festival juries and programmers, who have recognized its narrative, visual elements, and overall filmmaking quality.
Production: "I Want to Live on Mars" is a production of A Man with Friends (in association with), AuraPyre Productions, Cordell Productions, and Revolving Red Productions (all US).
Link IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt15164642/
About movie: https://discoverindiefilm.com/431-mariya-somova-mark-solari-joe-cyrus-i-want-to-live-on-mars/
Link to watch: https://www.amazon.co.uk/placeholder_title/dp/B0DZHGLXR8 (UK)
Why to recommend this movie: Recommend this film to viewers who appreciate:
Intimate and character-driven coming-of-age stories, particularly those centered on female experiences.
Independent films that explore themes of identity, belonging, and the search for a better future in unique and evocative settings.
Visually compelling films with strong cinematography and production design.
Personal and authentic storytelling from emerging filmmakers.
Why You Should Watch Movie:
To experience a unique and poignant coming-of-age narrative inspired by the intriguing real-life story of Centralia, Pennsylvania.
If you are drawn to films that sensitively explore themes of teenage isolation, the power of friendship, and the universal desire for escape and self-discovery.
To appreciate the award-winning visual artistry of the film, including its cinematography and production design.
What Movie Trend film is following: "I Want to Live on Mars" aligns with the trend of independent coming-of-age dramas, often characterized by their focus on nuanced character development, exploration of emotional complexities, and lower-budget productions with a strong emphasis on storytelling. It also resonates with the mumblecore movement in its focus on naturalistic dialogue and the lives of young adults, though with a more distinct visual style as evidenced by its awards.
What Big Social Trend is following: The film taps into the ongoing social trend of mental health awareness among young people, highlighting the often-unseen struggles with loneliness and the search for identity. It also subtly engages with themes of environmental impact and the decay of communities, as seen through the lens of the ghost town inspiration, prompting reflection on societal shifts and their effects on individuals.
Final Verdict: "I Want to Live on Mars" (2023) by Mariya Somova is a promising independent film that offers a tender and visually engaging exploration of teenage life, friendship, and the yearning for a brighter future. With recognition on the film festival circuit for its narrative and artistic achievements, it is a recommended watch for those seeking thoughtful and character-driven stories from emerging filmmakers. The film's unique inspiration and heartfelt themes are likely to leave a lasting impression.
Comments